Memphis Travel Guide

Plan the perfect trip to Memphis, Tennessee with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top things to do, places to stay, and local culture and customs of Memphis.


Introduction to Memphis

Nestled in Western Tennessee, Memphis is a vibrant cultural hub with a rich history and a buzzing food and drink scene. Known as the birthplace of rock and roll and the blues, Memphis offers visitors a blend of Southern charm and urban energy.

List of Places to Visit in Memphis

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. National Civil Rights Museum
  2. Graceland
  3. Stax Museum of American Soul Music
  4. Memphis Music Hall of Fame
  5. Sun Studio
  6. Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum
  7. Beale Street Historic District
  8. The Peabody Memphis

Natural Attractions: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Shelby Farms Park
  2. Mississippi River Park
  3. Mud Island River Park
  4. Lichterman Nature Center
  5. Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
  6. T.O. Fuller State Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Memphis

  1. Shelby Farms Greenline
  2. Wolf River Greenway
  3. Big River Crossing
  4. Overton Park

Best Things to Do in Memphis: Activities and Tours

  1. Ride a trolley around downtown Memphis
  2. Take a cruise on the Mississippi River
  3. Visit the Memphis Zoo
  4. Explore the Pink Palace Museum
  5. Tour the Belz Museum of Asian and Judaic Art
  6. Go on a ghost tour of Memphis

Week-Long Itinerary for Memphis

Day 1 Visit Graceland and the National Civil Rights Museum
Day 2 Explore Downtown Memphis and Beale Street Historic District
Day 3 Hike or bike the Shelby Farms Greenline and enjoy a picnic at Shelby Farms Park
Day 4 Take a cruise on the Mississippi River and visit Sun Studio
Day 5 Discover the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and enjoy a night out on the town
Day 6 Explore Mud Island River Park and the Memphis Music Hall of Fame
Day 7 Visit the Memphis Zoo, the pink Palace Museum, and the Belz Museum of Asian and Judaic Art

Food and Drink Scene of Memphis

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Memphis-style BBQ ribs
  2. Hot chicken
  3. Fried catfish
  4. Collard greens
  5. Red beans and rice

Local Beverages

  1. Sweet tea
  2. Memphis craft beer
  3. Bourbon cocktails

Where to Stay in Memphis: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. The Peabody Memphis
  2. Madison Hotel
  3. The Guest House at Graceland
  4. Big Cypress Lodge
  5. The Talbot Heirs Guesthouse

What to Buy in Memphis: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Memphis BBQ sauce and rubs
  2. Music and vinyl records from Sun Studio and Stax Records
  3. Handmade pottery and ceramics
  4. Memphis-inspired T-shirts and apparel
  5. Handcrafted honey and jams

Local Culture and Customs of Memphis

Memphis residents are known for their Southern hospitality and friendly nature. Tipping is common in bars and restaurants, and it’s customary to say “please” and “thank you” when interacting with locals. Dress code is casual, with shorts and sandals accepted in most places.

Best Time to Visit Memphis

Spring and fall are the best times to visit Memphis, when temperatures are mild and enjoyable. Summers in Memphis can be very hot and humid, while winters can be chilly and wet.

Do’s and Don’ts of Memphis

Do:

  1. Visit the National Civil Rights Museum
  2. Try the local BBQ and hot chicken
  3. Explore the music scene, including Sun Studio and Stax Museum of American Soul Music
  4. Take a stroll down Beale Street
  5. Enjoy the views at Mud Island River Park

Don’t:

  1. Go out alone at night in certain areas, like Orange Mound or Frayser
  2. Forget to tip in bars and restaurants
  3. Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting religious sites
  4. Ignore the etiquette of Southern hospitality
  5. Drive around too much in Downtown

Safety and Health

Safety in Memphis

While Memphis can be a safe place for tourists, it’s important to take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime. Avoid flashing cash or expensive items, particularly in downtown areas. Stick to well-lit, busy areas and avoid walking around alone at night in certain neighborhoods.

Health in Memphis

Memphis has several good hospitals, including Methodist University Hospital and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Be aware of the hot and humid weather during the summer months, and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

Getting to Memphis: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Memphis

  1. Memphis International Airport
  2. Nashville International Airport

Bus Stations Near Memphis

  1. Greyhound Bus Lines
  2. Megabus

Other Options

  1. Amtrak trains
  2. Rental cars

How to Get Around in Memphis

Memphis has a trolley system that runs between downtown and Midtown areas. There are also several bike-share programs and ride-sharing services available.

Where to Go Next from Memphis: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Nashville, Tennessee
  2. Little Rock, Arkansas
  3. Natchez, Mississippi
  4. Tupelo, Mississippi
  5. Hot Springs, Arkansas

Conclusion

With its rich history, unique cultural offerings, and thriving food and drink scene, Memphis is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Plan your trip ahead using this comprehensive guide to ensure a memorable and safe vacation.

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